So when the sinking snn draws near to night,
The sky's bright cheeks fade 'neath those tresses black.
Ye laugh — but silently the soul weeps on ;
Ye cannot stifle her sincere lament.
DEFIANCE.
"Conquer the gloomy night of thy sorrow, for
the morning greets thee with laughter.
Rise and clothe thyself with noble pride,
Break loose from the tyranny of grief .
Thou standest alone among men,
Thy song is like a pearl in beauty."
So spake my friend. 'T is well !
The billows of the stormy sea which overwhelmed my soul, —
These I subdue ; I quake not
Before the bow and arrow of destiny.
I endured with patience when he deceitfully lied to me
With his treacherous smile.
Yea, boldly I defy Fate,
I cringe not to envious Fortune.
I mock the towering floods.
My brave heart does not shrink —
This heart of mine, that, albeit young in years.
Is none the less rich in deep, keen-eyed experience.
